Language Standards: Using Grade 3 Academic and Domain-Specific Vocabulary (CCSS.L.3.6)

Help Questions

Common Core 3rd Grade ELA › Language Standards: Using Grade 3 Academic and Domain-Specific Vocabulary (CCSS.L.3.6)

Questions 1 - 10
1

During science, our class planted beans in small cups. Before we placed them on the windowsill, we measured each sprout and wrote the number in a table. After two days, we noticed that the leaves had unfolded above the soil. Next, we measured again and compared the heights. We collected data at the same time each morning to keep the test fair. At the end of the week, we used the numbers to make a simple conclusion about which plants grew fastest.

In this passage, what does the word "data" mean?

facts or measurements we collect

a habitat where plants live

a friendly chat with a partner

a tool used to dig holes

Explanation

Data are facts or measurements. The class measured sprouts and wrote numbers in a table, so data means the collected measurements.

2

Before art class, we worked in math groups to measure paper strips. First, we made an estimate of each length, saying what we thought it might be. Then we used rulers to measure from zero to the end of the strip. After checking, we recorded the numbers in an organized chart. If our estimate was far off, we tried again. By the end, we could tell which strip was longer or shorter, even when the edges lined up between two marks.

In the passage, the word "estimate" most nearly means to...

write a story about something

make a careful guess using what you know

find the exact measurement

color the shapes evenly

Explanation

Estimate means a careful guess before measuring. The class estimated first, then measured to check.

3

After silent reading, our teacher asked us to summarize the chapter. First we looked back at the sequence of events: the problem at recess, the plan, and the solution later that afternoon. Next, we chose only the most important details and left out extra descriptions. We used evidence from the text to support our ideas. Before sharing, we checked that our summary was shorter than the original and included the beginning, middle, and end. This helped us explain the main idea clearly to a partner.

What does "summarize" mean in this passage?

to draw every character and setting

to list every event in exact order

to tell the main points in a short way

to find the longest sentence in the book

Explanation

Summarize means to tell the main points briefly. The passage says they chose important details and made a shorter version.

4

During social studies, we practiced using a map to find the location of our town. First, we looked at the compass rose to see which direction was north. Then we traced a route from the river toward the school, moving across two bridges and past the park. After that, we checked the legend to interpret the symbols. By comparing landmarks that were near and far, we could find our way from one place to another and explain where things were in relation to each other.

In this passage, what does the word "location" mean?

a kind of car used on field trips

directions you say to a friend

a symbol or picture on a map

the place where something is

Explanation

Location means the place where something is. The class used the map to find the town's location.

5

In science lab, our class designed a simple investigation about plant growth. Before we planted the seeds, we stated a hypothesis about which amount of light would help them grow taller. After a week, we recorded data in a table and compared evidence from two pots placed next to a sunny window and above a shady shelf. During our discussion, we tried to analyze the results and explain patterns we noticed. We used careful observations to support our claim.

In the passage, what does the word "hypothesis" most nearly mean?

a list of steps to follow

special plant food

a testable idea or prediction

a funny story about the lab

Explanation

The class made the hypothesis before planting and then tested it after a week, so hypothesis means a testable idea or prediction.

6

During math, we planned how to measure the playground. Before drawing our map, we made an estimate of the distance around the sandbox. After that, we used string and a ruler to calculate the perimeter, walking around the edges to check our work. We wrote our measurements neatly beside each side so we could compare shapes that were near the slide and behind the benches.

What is the correct meaning of the word "perimeter" as used in the passage?

the total distance around a shape

the space inside a shape

a line straight across the middle

how hot or cold something is

Explanation

They walked around the edges to calculate it, so perimeter means the distance around a shape.

7

In social studies, we examined photos of an old coin and a clay bowl, calling each object an artifact. Before writing, we built a timeline to show the chronology of events from earliest to latest. After we placed cards in order, we described what likely happened later in the village and what occurred before the bowl was made. Using evidence from the artifacts, we supported our ideas with details.

In the passage, what does the word "chronology" mean?

a list of materials to bring

a favorite memory from class

a picture of one object

the order in which events happen over time

Explanation

They built a timeline from earliest to latest, so chronology is the order of events over time.

8

In writing workshop, we reread our drafts and decided what to revise. Before adding new details, we organized each paragraph so the topic sentence came first and examples followed after. Our teacher drew a small star in the margin below a sentence that needed clearer evidence. Finally, we shared feedback with a partner so the final copy would be stronger.

Which word best completes the sentence using academic language: After reading the article, we wrote a brief ____ to explain the main idea.

drawing

summary

fun take

recipe

Explanation

The passage uses academic writing terms; the word that fits is summary, which means a short statement of the main idea.

9

In science lab, we observe a snail moving across a clear tray. Before we begin, our teacher explains how to record data in a chart. During the activity, we keep the snail next to a ruler so we can note the distance it travels each minute. After five minutes, we compare our notes and discuss patterns. We are careful to observe quietly so we do not disturb the snail. Finally, we share a conclusion about what the data show.

In the passage, what does the word "observe" mean?

to fix the tray with tape

to guess what might happen without looking

to watch carefully to collect information

to chat with friends about the snail

Explanation

The class watches the snail carefully and records data, so "observe" means to watch closely to collect information.

10

After recess, our class measured the rectangle garden beside the swings. Before drawing a map, we estimated each side's length using meter sticks. Then we calculated the perimeter by adding the lengths of all four sides. During the lesson, partners checked each sum to make sure it was accurate. Later, we compared our answers to see if our measurements matched. Finally, we wrote a brief explanation of how perimeter helps us plan where to place new flowers along the edge.

What does the word "perimeter" mean in this passage?

the total distance around the garden

the place where students line up

the number on top in a fraction

a kind of ruler with buttons

Explanation

The passage says they add all four sides and plan along the edge, so perimeter is the distance around the outside.

Page 1 of 2